Medical dictionary

What is the parathyroid gland? There are four parathyroid glands in the neck, usually attached to the thyroid gland. They control the calcium levels in the blood, which is important for a wide array of functions throughout the body. The most common problem with parathyroid glands is an overactive gland due to a benign tumour called primary hyperparathyroidism. In 90%+ of cases, only one gland

What is parathyroid gland surgery? Parathyroid gland surgery seeks to remove one, various, or all of the parathyroid glands in order to treat overactive parathyroid glands. If the parathyroid is abnormal, it can cause various medical complications. In such cases, parathyroid gland surgery, otherwise known as parathyroidectomy when glands are removed, may be necessary. Why is parathyroid

What is being analysed? Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) levels in the blood are analysed. PTH is a crucial hormone that regulates calcium and phosphorus balance in the body.   What does the result mean? The PTH result indicates the amount of PTH circulating in the bloodstream. Elevated or lowered levels can provide insights into various medical conditions, particularly those related

What is Parkinsonism? Parkinsonism is a general term that refers to a group of neurological disorders that cause movement problems similar to those seen in Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, slow movement and stiffness. These neurological disorders are usually diagnosed and treated by a neurologist. What are the symptoms of Parkinsonism? The most common symptoms of this cond

What is Parkinson's? Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the neurons that produce dopamine. It is a slowly progressing disorder which is more prevalent as one becomes older. What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s? Parkinson's causes a progressive deterioration of certain brain functions in the patient that manifest with vario

What is Parkinson’s tremor? Tremors are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease and are characterised by involuntary shaking or quivering. Parkinson’s tremors are slow and rhythmic and commonly begin on one side of the body, in the hand, foot or leg. They may also later go on to affect both sides of the body as the condition develops. This type of tremor in the hand is often d

What are the parotid glands?The parotid glands are one of the salivary glands situated in front of the ears. The other two types of salivary gland are the submandibular glands (under the jaw) and the sublingual glands (under the tongue). Together, these glands produce saliva. What are the main functions of the parotid glands?The function of the parotid glands, like the other salivary glands,

What are the parotid glands? There are three main pairs of salivary glands that produce and release saliva into the mouth: the submandibular, sublingual, and parotid glands. The parotid glands are responsible for secreting saliva into the mouth to start the process of digestion.   What is parotid surgery and why is it performed? Parotid gland surgery or parotidectomy, is an op

Pars defect is a condition affecting the part of the vertebra in the lumbar spine (lower back), called the pars interarticularis, which is a small section of bone that joins the facet joints in the spine.What are the symptoms of pars defect? The main symptom of pars defect is lower back pain. The pain often radiates into the buttocks and legs, and can restrict daily activity. The defect does not&n